Why Cincinnati Is My New Favourite Alternative US City

I recently attended a brilliant event hosted by Selling Travel and Visit Cincy at Harvey Nichols in Leeds, and I left genuinely surprised (and inspired!) by what Cincinnati has to offer.

Often overlooked in favour of the big-name cities, Cincy, as it’s affectionately known, is a fabulous alternative for those wanting something a little more authentic, a little more “Real America”.

Here’s why it deserves a spot on your list:

🎯 2-for-1 City Break

Cincinnati sits right on the border of Ohio and Kentucky, making it a cultural and geographical sweet spot — the gateway to both the Northern and Southern states.

✈️ Easy Access

There are five weekly direct flights from Heathrow with British Airways, plus service from Aer Lingus. The airport is just 15 minutes from the city, and once you’re there, you likely won’t even need a car.

🚶 Walkable & Well Connected

Cincy is proudly walkable with a great public transport system, including free transit options within the city.

🥃 Bourbon, Ale & Rooftop Bars

The city is bursting with flavour from its culinary scene to its ale trail and self-guided bourbon experience known as The B-Line. One highlight: the New Riff Distillery, famed for its high-rye bourbon and rooftop bars with incredible views over the Ohio River.

🎨 Culture, Quirks & Festivals

Street art is everywhere, and every two years, Cincy hosts BLINK, one of the largest light, art and projection festivals in the world. There’s also a fascinating American Sign Museum, which feels straight out of Route 66, and the quirky Vent Haven Museum filled with vintage ventriloquist dummies!

🏈 Sport & History

Cincy is a sports city year-round, from NFL and baseball to tennis and horse racing. History buffs will love the Roebling Suspension Bridge (a prototype for NYC’s Brooklyn Bridge), and the city even doubles as 1940s New York in many film shoots.

🛏️ Stays With a Twist

From boutique hotels to the unexpected treehouses, converted pickle factories and even an arty “Swing House”, there’s something unique for every style of traveller.

💸 No Resort Fees & Great Value

It’s refreshing to find an American city that’s affordable, with no hidden resort charges. That means more budget for bourbon... or brunch!

Final Thought…

If you’re looking for an American adventure that’s a bit different, incredibly welcoming, and packed with character, Cincy could be just the ticket. It’s ideal as a standalone city break, or part of a fly-drive twin-centre (Nashville is just 4 hours away).


Got questions or fancy chatting ideas? I’d love to help. Cincy’s now firmly on my radar, maybe it should be on yours too!.